Newly released figures show that more than 73,700 high schools students are seeking admission to UC Berkeley’s 2014-15 freshman class. That’s about 6,000 more than last year, marking another record year for applications.

The more than 73,700 applicants comprise a 9 percent increase over the 2013-14 applicant pool numbers. Transfer applications grew as well, with more than 16,570 students seeking admission, up about 4 percent from the previous year.

Application data for all campuses in the UC system were released today (Friday, Jan. 17) by the University of California Office of the President. Systemwide, applications increased about 5 percent compared to the previous year. Detailed campus-by-campus data is available online.

Academically, UC Berkeley’s 2014-15 freshman applicant pool remains strong, with an average GPA of 3.64 (unweighted) and average SAT composite test score of 1922. Transfer applicants, many of whom are from California’s community colleges, have an average GPA of 3.40 unweighted, slightly higher than the previous year’s transfer pool.

Grades and test scores are critical aspects of the UC Berkeley admissions process, as is the context of the student’s academic achievement. Among many factors, UC Berkeley considers grade trends, the type and pattern of coursework taken, and whether the student made the most of the opportunities available to him or her. In its review of applicants, Berkeley also considers indications of qualities such as leadership and persistence. Ultimately, it seeks to enroll a strong class of scholars and leaders representing a cross-section of communities, incomes, backgrounds, interests and talents.

UC Berkeley freshman admission decisions will be announced on Thursday, March 27. Transfer admissions decisions will be announced on Friday, April 25.